And in the series this week, you’ll see how it LITERALLY moves me. I was out running one day when suddenly I recognized patterns within all of my favorite running songs. Thought it would be cool to share.

What are the songs? Not the big Rise and Sing by Fee or any of the heavy/fast stuff. I know… surprised me, too. Don’t get me wrong. I love those songs. But the lyrics that lead me to truly experience worship are the ones that make my running time sweet.

Being a musician, there are obviously musical elements that get me, too. All 3 of the songs I’m writing about have guitars and drums. And they all start out very soft and slow, then build to an incredible point where you feel as if you are going to take off (or at least I do). I think that’s what does it for me. So, without further ado… starting with #3 and working our way to #1… (Forgive me, I've just always wanted to say something like that) :)

I believe Chris Tomlin is one of the greatest worship writers of all time. It’s not because he is a super duper songwriter. He is anointed. I believe God gave him such a gift because He knew that Chris was a servant who would take up the challenge. Put him together with David Crowder, Matt Redman, Charlie Hall, Kristian Stanfill, Fee, Hillsong UNITED, and Christy Nockels, and it is just magic! (Just a hint at my other 2 favorite running songs… both artists are involved in Passion projects!)

Like the rising sun that shines; Awake my soul, awake my soul and sing Only You can raise a life; Awake my soul, awake my soul and sing

Awakening is an incredible song, with very simple, repetitive lyrics. Lyrics calling us out of our “darkness.” Calling us to awaken and show Christ to the world. Christ in us. We are called to become a true light in the dark. And the combination of music and lyrics "awaken" my spirit (and my legs) when I run! Try it! Add it to your workout playlist and see what I mean.

Do you have a favorite song for running? A favorite worship song that truly brings you into the throne of grace? Well… keep it in your mind for next Tuesday! Starting next week (July 19th), I’m going to try one of those fun linky-type posts.

Tune-In Tuesday will be where we all come together and share songs that God is using to speak to us… weekly.

Maybe you don't really put a lot of thought into those songs we sing on Sundays. This is your opportunity to really dig in there and see why these songs are tools God uses to bring us to a closer worship experience with Him!

What I’m looking forward to is believers coming together to share with each other in our own heart languages. We all have different types of worship songs that touch us. From hymns to southern gospel to contemporary. This is where they can all come together... After all, we are worshiping the same Creator! Would LOVE to have you all join us! And spread the word! :)

On Wednesday, come back for my favorite running song #2. Anyone have a guess??

8 Responses to "Music That Moves Me, Part 1"

Paula! I'm a runner too! I am always looking for more running songs. :)Also, I do a similar Share a Song on Mondays on my blog. Would love for you to share a link to your site over there today. (only if you want) :) What a great way to inspire others with music!

Great post Paula! I am feeling a little less spiritual after reading your play list...my running music tends to be a little more frivolous. Disco, old school hip hop and 80's big hair bands. I might need to rethink my running play list now :)

Eileen, that is awesome! :) Seems like all of us She Speaks girls have a LOT in common!!! I'm going to attempt to link to your blog... Pretty cool that you do the same thing that I'm planning on starting. Maybe we could promote each other's? Just a thought. Have a great day!!

Great post Paula! I am feeling a little less spiritual after reading your play list...my running music tends to be a little more frivolous. Disco, old school hip hop and 80's big hair bands. I might need to rethink my running play list now :)